India and Pakistan's Super 4 clash in the Asia Cup 2025 is already one of the most talked-about fixtures of the tournament. But this time, the build-up is not only about cricketing stakes.
The focus has shifted to the match referee's role after a controversy that erupted earlier in the tournament. The issue has seen official complaints, media speculation and firm statements from the ICC.
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With tensions still simmering, the question of who will oversee the game remains a headline topic.
Who will referee the IND vs PAK Super 4 clash?
According to the latest PTI report, Andy Pycroft remains in charge of matches involving Pakistan and there is no official confirmation of a switch. While the PCB continues to push for Richie Richardson, the ICC's stance has not changed.
MORE: Asia Cup 2025 Super 4: Rules, format, schedule, points and teams explained
Andy Pycroft at the center of the controversy
Pycroft, a senior member of the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees, has been in the spotlight since the group stage match between India and Pakistan.
According to multiple reports, the PCB accused him of instructing captains to skip the customary post-match handshake - calling it against the spirit of the game. The PCB escalated matters - writing to the ICC and demanding that Pycroft be removed from Pakistan's matches.
At one stage, Pakistan even threatened to boycott their fixture against the UAE. The ICC stood firmly by Pycroft.
More: Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 points table: Detailed Standings for the continental T20 tournament
Its internal review found no breach of protocols, stating that he was only following Asian Cricket Council guidelines to prevent an awkward live broadcast moment. He went on to officiate Pakistan's match against the UAE despite protests.
Richie Richardson proposed as alternative referee by Pakistan
In their communications with the ICC, the PCB had proposed Richie Richardson, another member of the Elite Panel, as their preferred replacement. Some media outlets even suggested a temporary compromise was being considered with Richardson stepping in.
But those reports didn't hold. The ICC rejected the demand, making it clear that swapping referees based on a single board's objections could set the wrong precedent.
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